M | Law Office Of | A. James Mullaney | Family Law Attorney & Mediator
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Step-by-Step Guide To Filing An Uncontested Divorce In Jacksonville

An uncontested divorce is often a straightforward and efficient way to end a marriage on mutual terms. While some couples attempt to handle their divorce without legal assistance, hiring an experienced divorce lawyer in Duval County is the best way to prevent errors and obtain peace of mind.

I am attorney A. James Mullaney, a Jacksonville divorce lawyer with over 24 years of experience handling family law cases. The Law Office of A. James Mullaney provides personalized legal services for individuals seeking a fast and efficient uncontested divorce in Florida.

Step-By-Step Guide For Uncontested Divorce

If you are wondering how to file an uncontested divorce in Jacksonville, here are the requirements:

  • Meet Florida’s residency requirement for divorce: Before filing for divorce, at least one spouse must have lived in Florida for at least six months. This is a strict requirement and failure to meet it will result in your case being dismissed.
  • Gather the necessary information: Before filing for divorce, you will need to collect documents needed for divorce in Florida. These documents may include tax returns from previous years, bank statements and financial account records, property deeds and mortgage documents and children’s birth certificates and social security cards (if applicable).
  • Complete the petition for dissolution of marriage: The Petition for Dissolution of Marriage in Duval County is the legal document officially beginning the divorce process. It must be accurately completed and filed with the court. Any mistakes or missing information can result in delays.
  • Prepare the marital settlement agreement: A Marital Settlement Agreement in Florida outlines the terms both spouses have agreed to regarding property and asset division, spousal support (if applicable), child custody and support (if children are involved).
  • File the documents with the Clerk of Courts: Once the necessary documents are completed, they must be filed with the Duval County Clerk of Courts. There is a filing fee, which varies based on your case.
  • Serve the documents to your spouse: You must give your spouse a notice of divorce. This can be done through personal service (delivered by a process server or sheriff) or certified mail (with a return receipt requested).
  • Observe Florida’s divorce waiting period: Florida law requires a 20-day waiting period from the date of filing before final judgment of dissolution of marriage. During this time, the court allows either party to contest the terms, but in an uncontested divorce, this is usually unnecessary.
  • Attend the final hearing (If required): In many uncontested divorces in Florida, neither spouse is required to appear in court. However, in some cases, a brief uncontested divorce hearing may be necessary.
  • Obtain the final judgment of dissolution of marriage: Once the judge signs the Final Judgment, the divorce is official. You should request a certified copy of the divorce decree for your records.

I can help ensure the entire uncontested divorce process is as smooth as possible.

Call Today

The Law Office of A. James Mullaney can guide you through every step, prepare the necessary paperwork and help you finalize your divorce efficiently in Jacksonville.  Fill in the client questionnaire or call 904-364-4565 today for a consultation.